Air freshener and method

ABSTRACT

An air freshener device includes a scent material interspersed within a polymer body or a polymer gel, and capable of dispersing out of the polymer gel. The polymer body and a polymer gel can be flexible and compressible, and also resilient and returnable to its original configuration. In addition, the polymer body and the polymer gel can have a freestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape. The air freshener can be light transmissive in at least a translucent manner, and can have indicia visible therethrough.

This is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/786,385, filed Feb. 24, 2004, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application Ser. Nos. 60/451,135, filed Feb. 28, 2003,and 60/517,030, filed Nov. 3, 2003.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to air fresheners and the like.

2. Related Art

Air fresheners are common devices used to improve and/or change theolfactory characteristics of an environment. Such environments caninclude bathrooms or wash closets, vehicles, lockers, drawers, etc. Suchair fresheners typically include a scent that is aesthetically pleasing,such as flowers, fruits, etc.

One common type of air freshener is a two-dimensional, paper-fiber cardwith a fragrance surrounded in a clear plastic envelope. The envelope ispierced to form an opening, and a portion of the freshener protrudesthrough the opening to release a scent. The air freshener includes astring or elastic forming a loop to suspend the air freshener. Such airfresheners are commonly utilized in vehicles. One disadvantage with suchair fresheners is that the card is moist, and can leak or leach, leavinga stain on other surfaces, such as dashboards. The plastic envelope andthe suspending loop act to resist contact between the card, and othersurfaces. Another disadvantage with such air fresheners is that they areaesthetically displeasing. Another disadvantage with such air freshenersis that they have a more pronounced and immediate scent release,releasing a majority of the scent in the first few days of use.

Another common type of air freshener has a disc-shaped shell or canisterwith a scented disc or gel inside. The shell can include an adhesivestrip to stick or adhere the shell to a surface. One disadvantage withsuch air fresheners is that removal of the shell often leaves a residueof the adhesive on the surface, which is aesthetically displeasing. Inaddition, the scented material can leak and harm the surface.

Some disadvantages of common air fresheners include 1) rapid scent lossor lack of longevity; 2) non-linear or inconsistent scent release overtime; and 3) risk of staining. Some air fresheners disperse their scenttoo rapidly, thus losing effectiveness over time, and not lasting aslong as desired. Some air fresheners quickly or rapidly disperse theirscent after activation, and then slowly release scent, or release littlescent, thereafter. Some air fresheners include materials that can leakand stain.

Another disadvantage with some air fresheners is that they include anon-solid and non-liquid material, or a jelly-like material, that mustbe contained in some type of container because the jelly is flowable.The material can become dried and cracked over time, presenting anaesthetically displeasing appearance. Again, the scented material canleak and damage surfaces.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop an airfreshener that is more aesthetically pleasing. In addition, it has beenrecognized that it would be advantageous to develop an air freshenerthat is easily located or positioned without marring or otherwisedamaging other surfaces. In addition, it has been recognized that itwould be advantageous to develop an air freshener that can last for adesired length of time, such as 30 days, and that can have a moreconstant scent release.

The invention provides an air freshener device with a scent materialinterspersed within a flexible and resilient polymer body. The polymerbody is compressible under an applied force and substantially returnableto an original configuration upon removal of the applied force. Thescent material is capable of dispersing out of the body to surroundingair. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a polymerbody can be a coherent elastomer having a freestanding, self-supported,three-dimensional shape. In accordance with another aspect of thepresent invention, the air freshener can be light transmissive in atleast a translucent manner, and can have indicia visible therethrough.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparentfrom the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example,features of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air freshener in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the air freshener of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the air freshener of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the air freshener of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the air freshener of FIG. 1 shown disposed on acurved surface and being compressed by a force;

FIGS. 6 and 7 are schematic views of a method for making the airfreshener of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a side view of an air freshener is accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an air freshener in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the air freshener of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the air freshener of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of an air freshener in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of an air freshener in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of a graph of scent release overtime of an air freshener in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the air freshener of FIG. 1;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a plurality of air fresheners inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a top view of a plurality of air fresheners in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another air freshener in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a front view of another air freshener in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 a is a side view of the air freshener of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20 b is a side view of the air freshener of FIG. 19, shown in adeflected configuration;

FIG. 20 c is a side view of the air freshener of FIG. 19, shown is acompressed configuration;

FIG. 21 is a front view of another air freshener in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention shown disposed on a surface;

FIG. 22 is a side exploded view of another air freshener in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 a is a front view of another air freshener in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention shown coupled to an air vent of avehicle;

FIG. 23 b is a cross-sectional side view of the air freshener of FIG. 23a;

FIGS. 24 a and 24 b are front views of air fresheners in accordance withembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is an exploded side view of another air freshener in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of another air freshener inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated inthe drawings, and specific language will be used herein to describe thesame. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scopeof the invention is thereby intended. Alterations and furthermodifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, andadditional applications of the principles of the inventions asillustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant artand having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered withinthe scope of the invention.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, an air freshener or scent device, indicatedgenerally at 10, in accordance with the present invention is shown forproviding a desired and/or aesthetically pleasing scent, fragrance,aroma or neutralizing agent. Air fresheners are one example of a fieldthat can benefit from the present invention. The air freshener 10 can beused in bathrooms, wash closets, vehicles, offices, bedrooms, etc. Thedesired scent can include, for example, floral, fruit, vanilla, berry,pine, etc. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, theair freshener 10 can include a flexible and resilient polymer body, suchas a polymer gel. The polymer body can be elastic and coherent. Thus,the polymer body can be compressible under an applied force, andsubstantially returnable to an original configuration upon removal ofthe applied force. It has been found that the polymer gel providesdesired characteristics of aesthetics, flexibility, longevity,substantially constant scent release, and containment. In accordancewith another aspect of the present invention, the polymer gel can have afreestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape that does notsignificantly change as the scent is released. In accordance withanother aspect of the invention, the air freshener 10 can grip or clingto a surface 14, without mechanical fasteners or additional chemicaladhesives. As such, adhesion between the air freshener and the surfaceis primarily by mechanical and/or specific adhesion. The surface 14 caninclude windshields, dashboards, computer monitors, glass windows,mirrors, etc.

The air freshener 10 includes a scent portion 18 for providing thedesired scent, indicated by arrow 20. The scent portion 18 can include acarrier material 22 with a scent material of the desired scentinterspersed therein. The term “scent material” is used broadly hereinto refer to a material that has a scent that can be discernable orsmelled, or even a neutralizing agent. Thus, the scent can be anascertainable smell used to cover other scents, or a neutral agent thateliminates odors or provides a fresher atmosphere. The scent materialdisperses or diffuses out of the carrier material 22 into the air oratmosphere where it can be detected, or where it can provide adiscernable scent. It is believed that the scent material migrates ordiffuses through and out of the carrier material or gel. The scentmaterial can be high in volatile notes, or has high volatility and canvaporize or evaporate at low temperatures. The scent material caninclude a scented oil. For example, suitable scent material can includepine, berry, vanilla, apple, coconut, cherry, pina colada, etc.

The scent portion 18 and/or the carrier material 22 can include apolymer material, such as a polymer gel 26, forming a polymer body. Thepolymer body and/or polymer gel 26 can be elastic and coherent. Thus,the polymer body can elastically deform under normal conditions. Thepolymer body can be flexible and resilient, such that the body or gelcan compress under an applied force (42 in FIG. 5), but cansubstantially return to its original configuration upon removal of theapplied force. The polymer gel 26, or the polymer body, can have afreestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape. Thus, the polymergel or polymer body can be consistent or solid enough to support ormaintain its shape in a freestanding manner without a container. Thethree-dimensional shape can be any desired shape. The polymer gel 26 canbe considered a solid material that is elastic and coherent, and thusflexible and capable of being deformed, but without being flowable.Thus, the polymer gel 26 may have a sufficiently high molecular weight,and/or a sufficiently high viscosity, so that it is a non-flowable gel.In addition, the polymer gel 26 can be considered as stable. Thus, thepolymer gel can be bendable, but otherwise substantially maintains itsform. The polymer body or polymer gel can be characterized as apolymeric material in the glass state with substantially no macroscopicflow. The polymeric material can have a glass transition temperaturegreater than approximately 110° F. The polymer gel 26 can retain itsgel-like characteristic over time, without drying or cracking, andwithout becoming hard or brittle.

In one embodiment, the polymer gel 26 can include a polyurethanematerial or can be a polyurethane gel. The gel can be formed bycombining a polyurethane material with a scented oil. Surprisingly, ithas been found that such a combination provides a desired scent, butwithout staining or substantially leaking onto a surface. In addition,the scent portion 18 does not undergo a visually ascertainable physicalchange, such as drying out or cracking. Thus, the scented portionremains aesthetically pleasing.

In some embodiments, a scented oil and a polymerizable monomer can becombined, along with optional initators or other reactants. Isocyanatereaction polymers have shown good results in connection with the presentinvention. For example, the polymer gel and scent material can be aurethane polymerization product of combining a scented oil with apolyether polyol, and then with a diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI)prepolymer. Therefore, in some embodiments, the scent material can be ascented oil which participates in the polymerization reaction betweenpolymerization reactants. For example, essential oils such as terpenesand the like can be mixed with polymerization reactants, or even inplace of some reactants. Without being bound by any particular theory,it is thought that at least some of the reduction or elimination inresidue in the devices of the present invention result from at leastpartial replacement of mineral oils and/or polyols with scented oilssuch as those listed herein. Other suitable isocyanates can include, butare not limited to, tolylene diisocyanates, methylene diphenylisocyanates, hexamethylene diisocyanates, prepolymers thereof, and thelike. Those skilled in the art will recognize various other isocyanatereaction polymers, i.e. polyurethanes, which can be suitable for use inconnection with the present invention.

Alternatively, the polymer gel 26 can include silicone, diffusedpolyurethane, polyvinylchloride (PVC), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA),thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a polymer encapsulation fragrancedelivery platform (PolyIFF®), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),polypropylene, ethylene/methacrylic acid (E/MAA) copolymer, in which theMAA groups have been partially neutralized with lithium ions (Surlyn®Dupont), etc.

As a general guideline, the polymer gel 26 can be formed of an elastomersuch as, but not limited to, urethanes (including polyester andpolyether polyol/isocyanate polymerization products), polyacrylates,polybutadienes, ethylene propylene elastomers, silicones, natural andsynthetic rubbers, styrene/butadiene block copolymers, and the like. Insome embodiments, the polymer gel can be formed of a thermoplasticelastomer. Thermoplastic elastomers can be block copolymers such aspolyurethanes, polyamides, copolyesters, and styrene-butadiene-styrenepolymers. Other thermoplastic elastomers can be elastomer/thermoplasticblends such as ethylene-propylene-diene monomer in an isotacticpolypropylene phase or nitrile rubber dispersed in a PVC phase. As usedherein, “thermoplastic elastomer” refers to an elastomer which can beheated and processed like thermoplastic materials. Specifically, athermoplastic elastomer can be heated to a melted or flowable state andthen cooled, resulting in reformation of cross-linking and subsequentcoherency without a substantial change in mechanical properties such asstrength, flexural modulus, elastic modulus, etc.

As used herein, “elastomeric polymer” and “elastomer” may be usedinterchangeably and refer to a polymeric material which can bemechanically deformed and upon release returns to an original shape. Acoherent elastomer is also non-flowable at or near room temperatures.Further, “cling” and “clingy” refer to a property of a polymericmaterial which imparts adhesion to most surfaces without a loss ofcoherency in the polymer. Typically, removal of an elastomeric polymerbody with a clingy attachment surface from a substrate does not resultin substantial deformation, including temporary deformation, duringflexing of the elastomer and/or attachment surface. A clingy attachmentsurface can be provided directly by the polymer body or can be providedin a separate layer as discussed in more detail herein. Adhesion canoccur via mechanical adhesion or specific adhesion. Specific adhesionrefers to adhesion dominated, or entirely characterized, by secondaryintermolecular forces, i.e. non-covalent bonds, although some covalentbonds can be formed.

Although the polymer gel 26 is freestanding and self-supporting, it isalso flexible and resilient. Thus, the scent portion 18 and carriermaterial 22 can form a flexible and resilient structure or body that canbe selectively deformed and can return substantially to thethree-dimensional shape. In addition, the carrier material 22 andpolymer gel 26 can be light transmissive in at least a translucentmanner, as described in greater detail below.

The air freshener 10 can also include an attachment portion, gripportion or base 30, disposed between the scent portion 18 and thesurface 14. Thus, the attachment portion 30 can act as a barrier betweenthe scent portion 18 and the surface 14 to resist potential contact ofthe scent material with the surface and protect the surface. The airfreshener 10 or attachment portion 30 has a lower surface 34 that isdisposed on and grips the surface 14. The lower surface 34 can be“tacky,” such that the air freshener 10 or lower surface 34 tends tocling to the surface 14 in a frictional fashion, as opposed to achemical or adhesive manner, and without using mechanical fasteners. Thelower surface 34 can be flat, or substantially flat, to provide agreater surface area to cling to the surface 14. Alternatively, thelower surface 34 can be contoured, or can include indentations, toreduce the surface area to facilitate removal of the device from thesurface 14.

The attachment portion 30 can include a pad 38 that can be formed of, orcan include, a material that provides a “clingy,” “tacky” or frictionalquality. For example, the pad 38 can include a molded polyurethanematerial. It has been found that the polyurethane material provides aclingy or tacky quality that remains disposed on the surface. Inaddition, it has been found that such a polyurethane material typicallycan be disposed on the surface 14 without marring or otherwisechemically interfering with the material of many surfaces, such asvehicle dashboards. It will be appreciated that many surfaces, such as avehicle dashboard, have a finished surface configured to beaesthetically pleasing and luxurious. Such surfaces can be formed of aplastic or leather material, and can be expensive to replace or repair.In addition, it will be appreciated that some surfaces are subjected toextreme conditions, such as heat and sunlight. It has been found thatthe polyurethane material typically clings to the surface 14 withoutchemically interacting with the material of the surface, or otherwisedamage the surface. The polyurethane material of the attachment portion30 forms a temporary non-chemical bond with the surface 14. The airfreshener 10 or attachment portion 30 can be removed from the surface 14without leaving behind any residue and without damaging the airfreshener 10. In this manner, the air freshener 10 can be easily movedto any location the user desires. Because the air freshener or padincludes a polyurethane material, it can be easily cleaned with soap andwater, and still retain its tackiness, and is thus reusable. The scentportion 18 can be formed or disposed on the pad 38 or attachment portion30, and can extend therefrom.

The attachment portion 30 allows the air freshener 10 to be positionedin a desired location, and even re-positioned as desired. For example,the air freshener 10 can be re-positioned to be in sunlight, near avent, or at an elevated location to facilitate or optimize scentrelease. Placing the gel in the sunlight can heat the gel, and isbelieved to increase scent release. Airflow from a vent can carry thescent throughout an area, and can also increase scent release. It isbelieved that the fragrance or scent can be heavier than air. Thus,positioning the air freshener at an elevated position increases thetravel and dispersing of the scent. The air freshener can be positionedso that it avoids contact with other objects, such as clothes in alocker, to avoid staining. In addition, the air freshener can bepositioned in a safe location in a vehicle, so that it does not block adriver's view.

The scent and attachment portions 18 and 30, or the carrier material 22and the pad 38, can form a flexible and resilient structure that can beselectively deformed, and can return substantially to its original shapeor configuration. It is believed that selectively squeezing the carriermaterial can temporarily cause a greater amount of scent to disperse.Thus, a user can selectively deform the carrier material when a greaterscent is desired, indicated by arrow 42 in FIG. 5.

The shape and size of the scent portion 18 can be configured todetermine the amount or quantity of scent released. For example, thescent portion 18 can have a shape to maximize or control the surfacearea through which the scent can permeate. The scent portion 18 can bebulbous, semi-bulbous, semi-spherical, tear-drop, oval, oblong, etc.Thus, the attachment portion 30 can have a shape or profile to match theshape of the scent portion. In addition, the material and amount of thescent and the scent portion can be varied to determine the release ofthe scent. It will be appreciated that the shape or design of the scentportion can vary. For example, the air freshener or scent portionthereof may be shaped to resemble an animal, a flower, a star, a face, agecko, etc. In addition, the air freshener can include means forincreasing the surface area of the scent portion or carrier material,including for example, slots, gaps, grooves, indentations, divots,protrusions, fins, ribs, etc. For example, a plurality of alternatingslots 46 and fins or ribs 50 can be formed in the scent portion 18,carrier material 22 or polymer gel. The slots 46 can extend into thecarrier material and/or the ribs or fins 50 can extend therefrom.

The slots 46 can be sized so that they terminate before the pad 38, sothat there is a portion 54 of the scent portion that remains continuous.It has been found that having the scent portion be a continuousstructure resists the fins 50 from tearing away. The bottom of the slotscan be curved to reduce stress concentrations and resist tearing.

The slots 46 can be used to receive an article or item, and to hold thearticle or item 56, as shown in FIG. 15. For example, the article oritem can include a note, a business card, directions, etc. Thus, thescent device can be used to hold directions while driving.Alternatively, the scent device can be shaped and configured to holdother items, such as the bridge of eyeglasses or sunglasses, compactdiscs (CDs), etc.

A barrier 58 can be disposed between the scent and attachment portions18 and 30, or the carrier material 22 and the pad 38. The barrier 58 canbe a layer of material that is heat and oil resistant, such as a nylon,TPU, polyester, or polypropylene sheet, or other synthetic material. Thebarrier 58 resists migration, leaking or leaching of the scent materialor scented oil into the pad 38, and thus to the surface 14. Thus,attachment portion 30 or pad 38, and the barrier 58, act to resist anystaining of the surface 14 resulting from scented oil leakingtherethrough. It has been found, however, that the scented oilsurprisingly does not leak from the scent portion and/or cause stains.It is believed, however, that the polyurethane material of theattachment portion 30 or pad 38 may be susceptible to leaching dependingon the scent oil used. Thus, the barrier 58 is intended to resist suchleaching. The barrier 58 can be smaller than the attachment portion 30and scent portion 18 in order to leave a perimeter attachment portion 25extending around a perimeter thereof so that the scent portion 18 canattach directly to the attachment portion 30.

The air freshener 10, including the attachment portion 30 or pad 38, canbe flexible and capable of bending to conform to curves or details in acurved surface 14 b, as shown in FIG. 5. The attachment portion 30 orpad 38 also can have a planer configuration and can be used on planarsurfaces. The air freshener 10 can be provided with a backing or releaselayer that prevents or resists the pad 38 from sticking or clinging toany wrapper or packaging of the air freshener. The release layer caninclude indicia thereon, such as instructions for use and care of theair freshener. The release layer can protrude beyond a perimeter of thepad 38, such as with a tab, to facilitate removal of the release layerfrom the air freshener. A removable wrapper can be formed around the airfreshener to protect the air freshener prior to use. The wrapper andbacking layer can be removed prior to placing the air freshener on thesurface.

The air freshener 10 can include indicia 62 (FIG. 2) disposed on anouter surface of the air freshener 10 or scent portion 18. The indicia62 can include artwork, a logo, an advertisement, an instruction, abrand, a trademark, etc. The indicia 62 can be formed by printing on theouter surface, molded into the material of the outer surface, etc.

As described above, the air freshener 10, scent portion 18 or gel can belight transmissive in at least a transparent manner. Thus, the scentportion or gel can be transparent or translucent. Indicia 66 (FIG. 1)can be disposed beneath or behind the scent portion 18, and visibletherethrough. Thus, the scent portion 18 can protect the indicia 66 fromwear. In addition, the use of a translucent or transparent gel materialand the shape of the scent portion can provide a unique visualappearance. Again, the indicia can be a logo, an advertisement, aninstruction, a brand, a trademark, etc.

A light color can be disposed behind the scent portion 18 or carriermaterial 22 to cause the translucent or transparent material to have aluminescent or brighter appearance. For example, the barrier 58 can havea light color, such as white.

The air freshener 10 can be utilized as a promotional device to promoteproducts or services. For example, the indicia 62 and/or 66 can includea logo or trademark for a product, service, business, etc. A method forutilizing the air freshener and/or for promoting includes providing suchan air freshener with indicia on or in the air freshener that isindicative of the promotion. Such an air freshener 10 can be given awayas a promotional item. A user can then install the air freshener 10,such as in his or her car, thus positioning the indicia in a locationwhere it will be frequently visible.

A method of using the air freshener 10 described above includes removingthe air freshener 10 from any wrapping, and/or removing any backinglayer from the pad. The air freshener 10 can be attached to a surface 14by placing the pad 38 against the surface so that the pad clings to thesurface. The surface 14 can be any desired surface, such as an interiorsurface of an automotive window, an automotive dashboard, a bathroommirror, etc. The scent from the scent portion 18 or polymer gel candisperse or permeate from the scent portion or polymer gel. The airfreshener 10 can be disposed in a location subject to heat and/orsunlight, such as an automotive windshield or dashboard. The heat fromthe sunlight or a heat vent can facilitate the release of scent from thescent device. In addition, airflow from the heat or vent can assist indispersing the scent. In addition, the air freshener 10 or polymer gelof the scent portion 18 can be flexible and can be pressed, causing thescent portion or gel to deform and to release scent. The pressure cancause the scent to mix and move to the surface of the scent portion.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a method for providing an air freshener isshown. The method includes combining a scent material with a polymerbody, such as a polymer gel. The polymer material or polyurethane can becombined with a scented oil. In some embodiments, the scented oil cancause the polymer material to gel. For example, the polymer body orpolymer gel can be a polymerization product of the scented oil,polyether polyol, and diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) prepolymer,although other polymerization reactants can also be used. The scentedoil can be combined with the polyether polyol. The diphenylmethanediisocyanate (MDI) prepolymer can be combined with the polyether polyoland scented oil to form the polymer gel. For example, a pine scented oilcan be combined with a polyether polyol so that the polyether polyol hasapproximately 40% pine scented oil content. The polyether polyol (withthe 40% pine scented oil content) can be added to the diphenylmethanediisocyanate (MDI) prepolymer on a 2:1 ratio, or 2 parts polyol to 1part prepolymer.

The polymer gel is configured into a desired shape. For example, amaterial 70 of the scent portion 18, such as the polymer gel, can bepoured in a mold 74 with cavities formed in a desired shape. Inaddition, the air freshener can also be provided with a pad. A material76 of the pad 38 can be poured in over the material of the scentportion. Pouring one material onto the other can cause the two materialsto bond or adhere to one another. Alternatively, the two portions can beseparately molded and attached with adhesive. The barrier can bepositioned prior to pouring one material onto the other. In addition,the device, or portions thereof, can be made by injection molding.

It will be appreciated that the air freshener 10 can be configured orshaped to appear as various different objects. The shape orconfiguration of the scent device 10 can provide an aesthetic pleasingappearance. For example, the shape and appearance of the scent devicecan differ significantly from traditional air fresheners. Other airfresheners often have a utilitarian appearance, such as cans orcanisters, while others have an appearance associated with airfresheners. Thus, the air freshener 10 of the present invention can havea shape and appearance not typically associated with air fresheners. Forexample, the air freshener 10 can have a substantial appearance andshape of an insect or bug, as shown. Various surface treatments, such asthe ribs or slots, can add to the appearance, such as by adding strips,etc. In addition, the air freshener or carrier material can have a colorthat adds to the appearance. It will be appreciated that other shapes orappearances are possible. For example, the air freshener can beconfigured to blend in with the environment in which it is used. Forexample, the scent device can be shaped and configured to appear as abutton to blend in with a dashboard. Alternatively, the air freshenercan be shaped, sized and colored to stand out, and act as a promotionaldevice or advertisement. For example, the air freshener can be shaped asa logo of an automobile manufacturer.

In addition, one or more air fresheners can be provided as collectables.For example, the air freshener can be shaped, configured or printed toindicate a commemorative event, such as a business anniversary, aholiday, etc. As another example, a plurality of different airfresheners can be provided in families or groups, with each airfreshener having a different size, shape, and/or color, as shown in FIG.16. As another example, a plurality of different air fresheners can beprovided with different shapes that fit together or coordinate to formanother object, such as a flower, etc, as shown in FIG. 17. The airfresheners 78 can include mating protrusions 78 b and recesses 78 c, sothat the air fresheners can be fitted together to form another object ordesign.

As described above, various indicia can be provided with the airfreshener. Such indicia can be molded or printed on the top of the airfreshener or on the scent portion. The scent portion or gel can betranslucent or transparent, and indicia can be provided on the barrier,or on the top surface of the pad. Thus, the indicia is visible throughthe scent portion or gel. The air freshener can be placed, such as on awindshield, such that the scent material or gel appears to light or glowwhen light shines through it. The pad and barrier can also betranslucent or transparent so that the entire air freshener can betranslucent or transparent, and so light can shine through the entireair freshener. As described above, the barrier 58 or other reflectivematerial can be disposed behind or beneath the scent portion or gel toreflect light.

In addition, a phosphorescent material can be provided in the base orthe scent portion so that the air freshener, or portion thereof,lumineses or glows. In addition, the indicia can include aphosphorescent material. Furthermore, another material can be added tothe scent portion or gel that causes the scent portion or gel to changecolors due to changes in temperature or light. For example, the scentportion or gel can be one color in the sunlight, and another color inshadows or darker conditions.

In addition, the air freshener can include an end-of-life indicator whenit is time to replace the air freshener. The useful life of the scentdevice can vary, and can be a typical period, such as 30 days. Forexample, the air freshener or scent portion can include a material thatchanges color or other characteristic over time. For example, the airfreshener or scent portion can change from translucent or clear toopaque. Alternatively, the air freshener or scent portion can changefrom opaque to translucent or clear. Indicia, such as “time to replace,”may be provided under the scent portion so that the indicia becomesvisible over time. Alternatively, the air freshener or scent portion canchange from one color to another.

In addition, the air freshener can be sized to conform to non-chockingrequirements, and can be formed from non-toxic materials. Furthermore,the air freshener or portion thereof can include a material that isbitter to the taste to discourage individuals from placing the device intheir mouths.

Referring to FIG. 8, another scent device or air freshener 10 b is shownthat is similar in many respects to that described above. The airfreshener 10 b includes a carrier material 22 b similar to thatdescribed above, such as a polymer body or a polymer gel with a scentedoil therein. The air freshener 10 b can also include a hanger 80, suchas a string, wire, clip, etc. from which to suspend or hang the carriermaterial 22 b or polymer gel. As described above, it has been found thatthe polyurethane gel is capable of substantially maintaining its form.In addition, it has been found that the scented oil surprisingly doesnot leak from the polymer gel and/or stain surfaces. Thus, the airfreshener 10 b can be suspended or hung as desired.

Referring to FIGS. 9-11, another scent device or air freshener 10 c isshown that is similar in many respects to those described above. The airfreshener 10 c can include a scent portion 18 c disposed on anattachment portion, grip portion or base 30 c. The scent portion 18 ccan include a carrier material 22 c, similar to those described above,and the base 30 c can include a tray 90. The carrier material 22 c canbe similar to that described above, a polyurethane gel with a scentedoil. Alternatively, the carrier material can include a scented plaster.The tray 90 can include a depression or indentation 94 therein formed bya perimeter lip 96 extending around the tray. The tray 90 can be formedof nylon, and can act as a barrier between the scented portion 18 c orcarrier material 22 c and the surface 14. An attachment means can bedisposed on the bottom of the tray 90 to attach or secure the tray tothe surface 14. The attachment means can include a polyurethane material98 to frictionally grip the surface 14, as described above. Otherattachment means can be used, including for example, adhesive, tape,hook-and-loop type fasteners, etc.

A button 102 can be utilized to secure the scent portion 18 c or carriermaterial 22 c to the tray 90 and/or to provide a visible surface 104.The visible surface 104 can be formed in the proximal end of the shaftand can be formed on an enlarged head capable of receiving indiciathereon. The indicia can include logos, advertisements, instructions,warnings, etc.

The button 102 can include a shaft 108 that extends through a bore orhole 112 in the scent portion 18 c or carrier material 22 c. A distalend 116 of the shaft 108 can be secured to the tray 90, such as in anindentation 118, in any appropriate manner, including sonic welding,press fit, mating screw threads, snap fit, etc. The button 102 canpermanently or temporarily secure the scent portion 18 c or carriermaterial 22 c. The entire air freshener can be disposable, or the scentportion 18 c can be removed and replaced.

The air freshener can be round or oblong, and can have a partiallybulbous shape, or a partially spherical shape. The scent portion 18 c orcarrier material 22 c can include an indentation or recess 122 toreceive the button 102 or head thereof. Thus, the button or head can beflush or substantially flush with the scent portion 18 c.

Referring to FIG. 12, another air freshener 10 d is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above. The air freshener 10d can be configured to maximize or control the amount of scentdispersed. The scent portion 18 d or carrier material 22 d can have ahollow interior or cavity 130 with an interior surface to maximize thesurface area of the scent portion 18 d or carrier material 22 d, andthus the amount of scent released. In addition, interior ribs or fins134, and/or grooves or channels, can be formed in the scent portion 18 dor carrier material 22 d. A gap 138 can be formed between the scentportion 18 d and the head of the button 102 d. The gap 138 can extend tothe cavity 130. Thus, the scent from the hollow interior can be releasedthrough the gap.

The button 102 d can be adjustably coupled to the tray 90 d, andselectively movable with respect to the tray. For example, the button102 d can be coupled to the tray 90 d by mating screw threads.Alternatively, the button 102 d can snap between two or more positions.Thus, the button 102 d can be selectively positioned with respect to thetray, and the size of the gap 138 can be selectively adjusted, toselectively control the amount of scent released.

Referring to FIG. 13, another air freshener 10 e is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above. The tray 90 e caninclude a protrusion extending into a cavity on the button 102 e.

Referring to FIG. 14, the carrier material or polymer gel of the presentinvention can disperse at a substantially constant rate, or can have asubstantially constant or linear scent release over time. The scentrelease can be determined by measuring the weight of the device overtime. As scent is released, the scent material disperses out of thecarrier material, reducing the weight of the carrier material. As shownin FIG. 14, the scent release or weight reduction can extendsubstantially linearly over time, represented by solid line 150. Thecarrier material and scent can be formulated to release a substantialamount of the scent material in a predetermined time period, such asbetween 2 to 30 days. The dashed line represents typical prior art airfresheners that quickly release scent.

Referring to FIG. 18, another air freshener 10 f is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above. The air freshener 10f can be shaped and sized, or the carrier material 22 f or gel can beformulated, to be substantially flexible or bendable. For example, theair freshener can be relatively thin, and can readily conform to asurface 14 c that also can be curved. Thus, the air freshener can have athin polymer body. The thin polymer body can be flexible andconformable, but resilient and returnable to its original configuration.The air freshener 10 f or carrier material 22 f can have an attachmentsurface 160 for attachment to a surface, such as glass. The attachmentsurface 160 can be tacky or clingy so that it can cling to the surfacewithout chemical adhesives or mechanical fasteners, as described above.Thus, the air freshener 10 f can be a simple device capable of beingremovably secured to a surface, such as a windshield or mirror. Inaddition, the air freshener 10 f can include a support surface 164configured to hold or support another object 168, similar to thatdescribed above. The support surface 164 can also be tacky or clingy tocling to the other object.

Referring to FIGS. 19-20 c, another scent device or air freshener 10 gis shown that is similar in many respects to those described above. Theair freshener 10 g includes a polymer body or carrier material 170similar to that described above, such as a polymer body or a polymer gelor thermoplastic elastomer with a scented oil therein. The carriermaterial 170 can be shaped so that it is relatively thin, or having athickness less than a width and a height. The carrier material 170 canbe light transparent in at least a translucent manner. Indicia 174, suchas figures, text, logos, etc., can be disposed on a surface of thecarrier material 170, and visible through the carrier material, such asat an opposite side of the carrier material. The indicia 174 can beprinted on the surface of the carrier material 170. Thus, thetranslucent and transparent carrier material and indicia can provide aunique optical appearance. The carrier material can be substantiallytransparent so that the indicia is clearly visible. The carrier materialcan be translucent, and can include a color, to modify the light passingthrough the carrier material. Similarly, the indicia can be translucentso that both the carrier material and the indicia modify the light.

In addition, the carrier material 170 can be flexible. The flexibilitycan be provided by the material and/or the size or thickness of thecarrier material. Thus, the carrier material 170 can be deflected orbent, as shown in FIG. 20 b. Bending the carrier material can also add aunique optical appearance. In addition, bending the carrier material canmix or displace the scented oil in the carrier material, to increasescent release. Furthermore, the carrier material 170 can becompressible, as shown in FIG. 20 c. Compressing the carrier materialcan add a unique optical appearance, and can mix or displace the scentedoil to increase scent release. The carrier material can be resilient orelastic, or can maintain is form or return to its original form afterdeflection or compression.

The air freshener 10 g can also include a clip 178 that engages thecarrier material 170. The clip 178 can include a portion 182 thatextents through an aperture in the carrier material. The clip 178 canform a loop to receive a hanger 186, such as a string, wire, strap, etc.from which to suspend or hang the carrier material.

Referring to FIG. 21, another air freshener 10 h is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above that clings to asurface, such as a window or windshield 190. The air freshener 10 hincludes a polymer body or carrier material 194 similar to thatdescribed above, such as a polymer body or a polymer gel orthermoplastic elastomer with a scented oil therein. The carrier material194 can be shaped so that it is relatively thin, or having a thicknessless than a width and a height. The carrier material 194 can be lighttransparent in at least a translucent manner. Indicia 198, such asfigures, text, logos, etc., can be disposed on a surface of the carriermaterial 194, and visible through the carrier material, such as at anopposite side of the carrier material. The indicia 198 can be printed onthe surface of the carrier material 194. Thus, the translucent andtransparent carrier material and indicia can provide a unique opticalappearance. The air freshener 10 h or carrier material 194 can have asurface that is tacky or that frictionally clings to the surface. Thus,the air freshener can be releasably secured to a lighted or lighttransmissive surface, such as an automobile windshield, a home or officewindow, a mirror, etc. Light passing through the surface will also passthrough the carrier material 194. In addition, the indicia can betranslucent so that both the carrier material and the indicia can modifylight passing therethrough. Thus, the air freshener can have anappearance similar to stained glass or the like.

The air freshener 10 h or carrier material 194 can have a surface thatis tacky or that frictionally clings to the surface in a releasablemanner without modifying or marring the surface as with mechanical orchemical adhesives. Thus, the air freshener 10 h can be selectivelydisposed about the surface as desired, and removed for disposal. The airfreshener can have an attachment surface similar to those describedabove. The indicia can be disposed on the attachment surface, and thusdisposed between the carrier material and the window to protect theindicia.

Furthermore, the indicia can be disposed in the air fresheners orcarrier materials described above, and visible therethrough. Forexample, the indicia can be printed on a substrate that is inserted intothe carrier material during molding.

Referring to FIG. 22, another air freshener 10 i is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above and includes a lightsource that allows the air freshener to illuminate or glow, and that canalso provide heat to increase a rate of release of scent from the airfreshener. The air freshener 10 i includes a polymer body or carriermaterial 202 similar to that described above, such as a polymer body ora polymer gel or thermoplastic elastomer with a scented oil therein. Thecarrier material 202 can be shaped so that it is bulbous to provide anaesthetically pleasing design while also increasing an exposed surfacearea of the material to increase a release rate of scent.

In addition, carrier material 202 can be light transparent in at least atranslucent manner. As described above, indicia (not shown), such asfigures, text, logos, etc., can be disposed on a surface of the carriermaterial 202, and can be visible through the carrier material, such asat an opposite side of the carrier material. The indicia can be printedon the surface of the carrier material. Thus, the translucent andtransparent carrier material and indicia can provide a unique opticalappearance. In addition, the indicia can be translucent so that both thecarrier material and the indicia can modify light passing therethrough.

A light source 208, such as a light bulb or light emitting diode (LED)can be coupled to or adjacent the body or carrier material 202, and canbe capable of emitting light visible through the carrier material 202. Acavity 210 can be formed in the body or carrier material 202 to receivethe light source 208 in the cavity 210. Thus, the transparent ortranslucent nature of the carrier material 202, in combination with thelight source 208, can cause the carrier material 202 to illuminate. Inaddition, the light source 206 can create heat that can increase scentrelease. It will be appreciated that the light source 208 can beselectively activated to create a unique visual appearance, and/or toincrease a rate of release of scent from the carrier material.

The air freshener 10 i can include a power source (not shown), such as abattery, to power the light source 208; or can include a power couplingfor connecting the freshener to a power source. For example, the airfreshener 10 i can include a vehicle accessory, or cigarette lighter,power plug 214 that is sized and shaped to be inserted into a vehicleaccessory, or cigarette lighter, power socket. Thus, the air freshenercan be disposed in, and operated within, a vehicle and can be powered bya power source already present in most modern vehicles. The vehicleaccessory power plug 214 can include an articulated, pivoted, orflexible arm to allow the light source 208 and carrier material or body202 to be selectively positioned or directed. It will be appreciatedthat vehicle accessory power sockets can have different orientations andpositions. Thus, the arm can allow desired positioning of the lightsource or body.

The body or carrier material 202 can be removably disposed on the powersource or plug 214 and light source 208. Thus, the body or carriermaterial 202 can be selectively removed and replaced to providedifferent smells, colors, etc. to the interior of the vehicle. Inaddition, the body or carrier material can be easily replaced whendepleted without requiring that the entire unit be replaced.

Referring to FIGS. 23 a and 23 b, another air freshener 10 j is shownthat is similar in many respects to those described above and includes aclip 220 that can allow the air freshener to be secured to an air vent224, such as on a vehicle. As described above, the air freshener 10 jincludes a polymer body or carrier material 226, such as a polymer bodyor a polymer gel or thermoplastic elastomer with a scented oil therein.Positioning the air freshener 10 j in front of an air vent can increasescent dispersal as air blows through the vent and through or around thepolymer body. In addition, if the air being blown through the vent iswarm, the rate of scent dispersal from the carrier material can beincreased. The clip 220 can be coupled to the body or carrier material226 and can have one or more projections or prongs 230 that extend fromthe clip and body to engage the air vent 224. Such air vents 224typically include a grid or array of spaced apart ribs. The projectionsor prongs 230 can extend into the grid or array of ribs, and can havebarbs to engage the grid or ribs. A web can extend between theprojections or prongs to connect the prongs, and the projections orprongs can extend through the body or carrier material to couple theclip to the body or carrier material.

The body or carrier material 226 can include a plurality of holes 234extending through the body to increase the exposed surface area of thecarrier material, and thus increase the rate at which the scent isreleased.

Referring to FIGS. 24 a and 24 b, air fresheners 10k and m,respectively, are shown with bodies or carrier materials having shapeswhich can maximize exposed surface area of the freshener. Such shapescan include slots or indentations 238 a and 238 b. In addition, the airfresheners can include indicia, such as logos, disposed on the body orcarrier and/or the clip 242, as shown in FIG. 24 a.

Referring to FIG. 25, another air freshener 10 n is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above, and can include asuction cup 250 to secure the body or carrier material 254 to a surface.As described above, the air freshener 10 j includes a polymer body orcarrier material 226, such as a polymer body or a polymer gel orthermoplastic elastomer with a scented oil therein. The suction cup 250can be coupled to the body or carrier material 226 in a variety ofmanners, as would occur to one skilled in the art. In the embodimentshown, a projection 258 can extend from the suction cup, and can have anenlarged head 262. The body or carrier material 254 can have a cavity266 with a corresponding enlargement to receive the enlarged head of theprojection to couple the body to the suction cup. The body can beresilient and flexible to allow the body to expand over the enlargedhead so that the body can be selectively removed and coupled to thesuction cup.

Referring to FIG. 26, another air freshener 10 o is shown that issimilar in many respects to those described above, and can include anenclosure to allow the air freshener to be placed into close contactwith other objects, such as clothes, etc. As described above, the airfreshener 10 o includes a polymer body or carrier material 270, such asa polymer body or a polymer gel or thermoplastic elastomer with ascented oil therein. The air freshener includes a shell 274 with ahollow or cavity. The body or carrier material 270 can be disposed inthe shell within the hollow or cavity. The shell 274 can include a pairof halves 278 and 282 that can be releasably joined together. Thus, thebody 270 can be selectively disposed in and removed from the shell. Aplurality of holes 286 can be formed through the shell to allow thescent to escape from the shell. In addition, the shell can include aplurality of spines or projections 290 that extend radially outwardlyfrom the shell. The spines can aid in retaining the shell fromcontacting other objects, such as clothes in a drawer, and can createair pockets between the spines and over the holes to allow the scent toescape. The shell or enclosure can include attachment means to allow theenclosure to be suspended from a hanger, such as a string or cable. Itis to be understood that the above-referenced arrangements are onlyillustrative of the application for the principles of the presentinvention. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements can bedevised without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention while the present invention has been shown in the drawings andfully described above with particularity and detail in connection withwhat is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferredembodiments(s) of the invention, it will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications can be madewithout departing from the principles and concepts of the invention asset forth in the claims.

1. An air freshener device, comprising: a) a coherent elastomericpolymer body; b) a scent material, interspersed within the body, capableof diffusing out of the body to surrounding air; and c) the polymer bodybeing light transmissive in at least a translucent manner.
 2. A devicein accordance with claim 1, further comprising: indicia disposed on orin the polymer body and visible through the polymer body.
 3. A device inaccordance with claim 1, wherein the polymer body is flexible andselectively deflectable.
 4. A device in accordance with claim 1, whereinthe polymer body is elastically compressible and capable of elasticallyreturning to an original configuration after being compressed.
 5. Adevice in accordance with claim 1, wherein the polymer body further hasa freestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape.
 6. A device inaccordance with claim 1, wherein the polymer body includes a polymericmaterial with a glass transition temperature greater than approximately110° F.
 7. A device in accordance with claim 1, wherein the elastomericpolymer is a member selected from the group consisting of polyurethane,polyacrylate, polybutadiene, ethylene propylene elastomer, silicone,natural rubber, synthetic rubber, styrene/butadiene block copolymer,polyvinylchloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, polypropylene,ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer, and mixtures thereof.
 8. A devicein accordance with claim 7, wherein the elastomeric polymer is a memberselected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polyacrylate,polybutadiene, ethylene propylene elastomer, styrene/butadiene blockcopolymer, and mixtures thereof.
 9. A device in accordance with claim 1,wherein the elastomeric polymer is a thermoplastic elastomer.
 10. Adevice in accordance with claim 9, wherein the thermoplastic elastomeris selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyamides,copolyesters, styrene-butadiene-styrene polymers,elastomer/thermoplastic blends, and combinations thereof.
 11. A devicein accordance with claim 1, wherein the polymer body includespolyurethane and the scent material includes a scented oil.
 12. A devicein accordance with claim 1, wherein the polymer body is a polymerizationproduct of at least a diisocyanate prepolymer and a scented oil.
 13. Adevice in accordance with claim 12, wherein the polymer body and scentmaterial include a polymerization product of: a) a polyether polyol; b)a diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) prepolymer; and c) a scented oil.14. A device in accordance with claim 1, further comprising: a hanger,coupled to the polymer body, with the polymer body suspended from thehanger.
 15. A device in accordance with claim 1, further comprising: aclip, coupled to the body, and having a projection engageable with anair vent to secure the body proximate the air vent.
 16. A device inaccordance with claim 15, further comprising a plurality of holes orslots formed in the body and increasing exposed surface area of thebody.
 17. A device in accordance with claim 1, further comprising: asuction cup, coupled to the body.
 18. A device in accordance with claim17, further comprising: a projection, extending from the suction cup,having an enlarged head; and a cavity, formed in the body, having arecess/cavity to receive the enlarged head of the projection to couplethe body to the suction cup.
 19. An air freshener device, comprising: a)a thermoplastic elastomer having a freestanding, self-supported,three-dimensional shape; b) a scent material, interspersed within thethermoplastic elastomer, capable of diffusing out of the thermoplasticelastomer to surrounding air; and c) the thermoplastic elastomer beinglight transmissive in at least a translucent manner.
 20. A method forproviding a desired fragrance, comprising the steps of: a) securing atacky attachment surface of an air freshener to a surface by mechanicalor specific adhesion, the air freshener including a scent materialcarried by and dispersable through a coherent, flexible and resilientpolymer carrier material; b) positioning the air freshener so that lightpasses through the carrier material, the carrier material being lighttransmissive in at least a translucent manner; and c) selectivelyremoving the pad from the surface.